Beginning in 1960, researchers followed the progress of 1,952 students and found that those who demonstrated being a responsible student, showed an interest in school, and had good reading and writing skills were more likely to continue their education and attain more prestigious jobs over the following five decades. Lead author Dr. Marion Spengler writes,…

Researchers claim that our ability to “feel” the emotions of others stems partly from our genetic makeup. A study of nearly 47,000 adults found that genes seem to explain 10% of the variance in empathy from one individual to another and that these genes are also associated with the risk of autism, schizophrenia, and anorexia.…

Terminal illness appears to bring newfound and profound wisdom. In this study, patients in hospice care admitted that facing their own mortality and imminent death changed how they viewed wisdom, and they often desired to find peace or acceptance as their health declined. Researcher Dr. Lori Montross-Thomas explains, “It wasn’t passive ‘giving up,’ but rather…

Experiencing a serious head injury appears to increase one’s risk for dementia later in life. A new large-scale study found that an individual’s risk for dementia can remain elevated by up to 25% even three decades after their head injury occurs. PLOS One, January 2018

New research suggests that acne can throw some people into deep depression. An analysis of data concerning nearly two million patients found that those with acne had more than a 50% increased risk for developing clinical depression. British Journal of Dermatology, February 2018

A recent research review focusing on nonprescription painkillers found that these types of medicines can reduce a person’s ability to empathize with the pain of others, make some more willing to part with possessions, and can even impair information processing. Lead researcher Dr. Kyle Ratner writes, “In many ways, the reviewed findings are alarming… Consumers…

A review of data from the Health and Retirement Study indicates that seniors who feel their life has purpose have a 30% reduced risk for developing dementia. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, January 2018

Chronic stress can have a negative effect on one’s mental and physical wellbeing. According to the Department of Health & Human Services, common signs of excessive exposure to stress include: not eating enough or overeating; feeling you have lost control of your life; forgetfulness; headaches; lack of energy and focus; trouble completing tasks; poor self-esteem;…

People who have a strong sense of entitlement think rules don’t apply to them. Researcher Dr. Emily Zitek explains, “[These individuals] don’t think it’s fair for other people to tell them what to do… Instructions are essentially an unfair imposition. They want to do their own thing. They feel like they deserve good things and…

In this study, investigators observed that women who smelled their partner’s shirt had a reduced response to stress in comparison with those who smelled a stranger’s scent. Senior author Dr. Frances Chen comments, “Our research suggests that something as simple as taking an article of clothing that was worn by your loved one could help…